Chelsea’s prospects are looking brighter as they gain momentum in their push for a strong finish this season. Despite the unpredictable nature of the Premier League table, Enzo Maresca’s squad has plenty of reasons for optimism. While just two unfavorable results could see them slip back to 10th place, their current run of form suggests they are on an upward trajectory.
Their recent 4-0 triumph over Southampton has set them up well, granting them a full week of rest before they resume their UEFA Conference League campaign. Up next is a home encounter against Leicester City, who have been struggling, before a crucial away fixture against Arsenal just before the international break.
That clash with Mikel Arteta’s side carries significant weight. Arsenal, currently trailing Liverpool by 13 points in the title race but with a game in hand, are under mounting pressure. Following their match against Chelsea, they face a tough trip to Old Trafford to take on Manchester United, further complicating their ambitions.
For Chelsea, the objective is clear: they are in a tight contest with Newcastle, Bournemouth, Brighton, Fulham, and Aston Villa for a coveted top-four finish. With just five points separating seven teams, the standings remain highly competitive. Even Nottingham Forest, positioned higher in the table, is only six points ahead. Successfully navigating the next two weeks could set Chelsea up for a strong final stretch of the season, especially with several key players on the verge of returning from injury.
### Key Players Set to Return
Chelsea has been dealing with the absence of seven first-team players, at least four of whom are regular starters. These injuries have forced Maresca to make tactical adjustments and rotate his squad more than he would prefer. However, relief is imminent.
“We could have most of the squad back after the international break, maybe even all of them,” Maresca stated last week. “That would be a huge boost for us.”
One of the most notable absentees has been Nicolas Jackson, who has been sidelined for the past two weeks. His absence has left Chelsea without a natural striker, leading to Pedro Neto being deployed as a makeshift No. 9. While Neto has performed admirably in the role, Jackson’s return will restore balance to the attack and provide much-needed support for Cole Palmer, who has struggled without his usual strike partner.
In defense, Wesley Fofana, who had been out since early December, recently made a return to the bench against Southampton. Initially feared to be sidelined for the entire season, Fofana now appears poised for a comeback, offering Chelsea his athleticism and composure on the ball. His potential partnership with Levi Colwill could prove vital in stabilizing the defense.
Another defensive reinforcement on the horizon is Benoit Badiashile, who remains slightly behind Fofana in his recovery but is expected to return by mid-March. His comeback will provide much-needed depth, particularly in the Conference League, where he can regain match sharpness.
Trevoh Chalobah’s situation remains uncertain after he suffered a setback just minutes into Chelsea’s match against Aston Villa. While he may not return before the international break, Maresca is confident that his absence won’t be long-term. In the meantime, Tosin Adarabioyo and Josh Acheampong serve as backup options for the right-sided center-back role.
### Reinforcements in Midfield and Attack
In midfield, Romeo Lavia has struggled to gain consistent playing time due to ongoing injury issues. Having made only 12 appearances this season, his latest setback occurred in January against Bournemouth. Once fit, his return will add stability and depth to Chelsea’s midfield.
Further up the pitch, Noni Madueke’s absence has forced Christopher Nkunku to take on greater responsibilities in the attack. While Nkunku delivered a promising performance against Southampton, Chelsea looks significantly more threatening when Madueke is operating on the right flank instead of Jadon Sancho.
Marc Guiu is also making strides in his recovery. While he won’t be available for Chelsea’s upcoming Conference League fixture, should the club progress to the quarter-finals, he will have opportunities to contribute. Injured on February 3 alongside Jackson, Guiu has yet to start a Premier League match, but as Chelsea’s only other natural center-forward, his return will be a crucial addition to the squad.
### A Defining Period Ahead
With several key players set to rejoin the squad, Maresca will soon have a full-strength team at his disposal. As Chelsea continues its pursuit of a top-four finish, these returning players could provide the extra firepower and defensive stability needed to navigate this crucial stage of the campaign.
